BE CAREFUL WITH THIS ORNAMENTAL

Today afternoon I went to my wife's garden. She was so enthusiastic to show me all she have there and asks for suggestion on how to improve it. I told her that the Aglaonema spp. is quite nasty in plantation because it is difficult to eradicate. Normal dosage of weedicide is not effective against it. It grow vigorously and no apparent pest. If we send people to slash it, it multiply by the number of cutting.

Aglaonema spp

Aglaonema spp belongs to Araceae family same as the Alocasia macrorhiza or "bagiang" in Irranun language. I suggested it must be contained in pots. My wife slash the corm of the Aglaonema but she was unfortunate when the plant juice splash to her left eye. She can not bear the pain and instinctively run to nearby tap to wash her eye with plenty of water.

Before the incident

Still in pain, she went inside the house and apply breast milk but still not cured. She also used the Eyemo but still in pain. Tears run constantly until after 2 hours. Now after 4 hours her eye still red.

After affected by Aglaonema juice

I have search the internet and found these two properties of algaonema spp toxicity to human and pets.

1. Oxalates: The juice or sap of these plants contains oxalate crystals. These needle-shaped crystals can irritate the skin, mouth, tongue, and throat, resulting in throat swelling, breathing difficulties, burning pain, and stomach upset. Call the Poison Control Center or your doctor if any of these symptoms appear following ingestion of plants.
2. Dermatitis: The juice, sap of these plants may cause a skin rash or irritation. Wash the affected area of skin with soap and water as soon as possible after contact. The rashes may be very serious and painful. Call the Poison Control Center or your doctor if symptoms appear following contact with the plants.

(Source: http://www.plantsciences.ucdavis.edu/ce/king/PoisPlant/Tox-SCI.htm)

Please be careful when handling the plant and keep the algaonema from curious children!